Top 5 Animated Dragons

As September draws near, bringing school and changing leaves with it, the Dragons Film of the Week series comes to an end. Since I couldn't fit all of my favorite dragons in, I've compiled a list of my top five classic animated dragons.

5. The DragonTales dragons

I grew up with DragonTales - I still remember the theme song - and my love for fantasy latched on to the series easily. Watching it now is different, but I still love the dragons, the variety of their designs, and their whimsical characters.

4. Dragon, Shrek

The original Shrek, from DreamWorks, packed so much satire, parody, humor in that it's sometimes hard to know where to start. The dragon, guarding Fiona's tower, is a dragoness who falls for Donkey, of all characters. Her entire introduction is stellar. As one of the few female dragons to grace the silver screen, she warrants a significant mention.

3. Mushu, Mulan

One of the only dragons to have to remind people he is actually a dragon, Mushu is also one of the most comedic. As a pocket-sized dragon, Mushu is also the most practical, able to travel and offer advice inconspicuously. Mushu is one of the classic Disney sidekicks, definitely with some of the best quotes.

2. Haku, Spirited Away

Technically a river spirit, Haku is one of the most gorgeous animated dragons to grace the screen. He's also one of the only animated dragons with a fully human aspect, making him even more relatable. As he grows closer to Chihiro, helping her remember herself and her parents, you can't help but fall for him yourself.

1. Jabberwocky, Alice in Wonderland

Who could beat a Christopher Lee voiced CGI-animated terror? The Jabberwocky only features a small part in the Tim Burton adaptation, when the Queen of Hearts calls on him in the climactic battle sequence. Although we don't see much of him, and hear even less of Lee's amazing voice, he is a terrific force on screen.

Honorable Mentions

1. Maleficent, Sleeping Beauty

Alright, so Maleficent isn't really a dragon. But what kind of Disney fan would I be if I didn't acknowledge the transformative powers of Disney's greatest villain? Dragons are an imposing creature with awesome power; it's not surprising how often shape-shifters choose dragon form in climactic battles.

2. Draco, Dragonheart

I mention Draco largely for love of my brother. Voiced by Sean Connery, this dragon might compete with the Jabberwocky on design, but he has more in common with early Disney animated dragons.

Who are some of your favorite dragons?